Robbie Neilson praises 'phenomenal' Hearts fans as Inverness hit new attendance record with more than 8,000 virtual ticket sales

Robbie Neilson today acclaimed Hearts supporters’ generosity as Inverness Caledonian Thistle reached a new attendance record through virtual ticket sales.

Hearts fans are digging deep to helping Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The online number hit the 8,000 mark last night and continues to rise as Tynecastle fans rallied to help the Highlanders, who haven’t had a home game since December.

The virtual sale of match briefs was launched ahead of the fixture against Hearts on February 26. It has now broken Inverness' record crowd of 7,753 – set against Rangers – and exceeded the Caledonian Stadium’s total capacity as fans continue buying tickets.

Manager Neilson said it shows the quality of his club’s support as they reciprocate following previous kind gestures from their northern counterparts.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 23: Manager Robbie Neilson is pictured during a Hearts press conference at the Oriam, on December 23, 2020, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
(Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group)

Inverness donated to Hearts’ 1874 Fighting Fund in 2013 when the Edinburgh club were in administration, and also backed them during last year’s controversial enforced relegation.

Neilson told the Evening News of his pride at the Hearts fans’ response. “I think it’s absolutely brilliant. There is obviously a really good relationship between Hearts and Inverness,” he said.

“When I was here previously, we had financial problems and Inverness were one of the teams who helped us.

“They and their fans donated a lot of money through the Fighting Fund, which is always remembered. I think it’s important certain teams stick together throughout this period and there is definitely a link there with Inverness.

“Finances are very difficult at this moment in time for a lot of clubs, so an idea like this is great. The Hearts fans are backing it to the hilt and it’s great to get a sellout.

“The sales have been phenomenal. It shows the quality of support we have. The club has had its difficulties in the past year with the pandemic and getting demoted, but we remember the teams who tried to help us out.”

Fans of Inverness and other clubs have also contributed to the rising number. Supporters can buy either a £5 virtual ticket or a £10 souvenir ticket with signed thank you letter from the Inverness manager and Hearts legend John Robertson.

“The way the Hearts fans are going, I’m not surprised by this at all,” added Neilson. “I know wee Robbo’s wrist will be sore by the time the game comes round, that’s for sure.”

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